Ensemble

Etymology

French, from ensemble together, from Old French, from Latin insimul at the same time, from in- + simul at the same time

• Date: 1750

Definitions

• a group producing a single effect: as a : concerted music of two or more parts

b : a complete costume of harmonizing or complementary clothing and accessories

c (1) : the musicians engaged in the performance of a musical ensemble (2) : a group of supporting players, singers, or dancers; especially : corps de ballet

Description

A musical ensemble is a group of two or more musicians who perform instrumental or vocal music. In each musical style different norms have developed for the sizes and composition of different ensembles, and for the repertoire of songs or musical works that these ensembles perform.

A group of two musicians is called a duo, a group of three is a trio, a group of four a quartet, and a group of five a quintet. A musician who usually performs alone is usually termed a solo musician or solo artist.

In classical music, trios or quartets either blend the sounds of musical instrument families (such as piano, strings, and wind instruments) or group together instruments from the same instrument family, such as string ensembles or wind ensembles. In jazz ensembles, the instruments typically include wind instruments (one or more saxophones, trumpets, etc.), one or two chordal "comping" instruments (electric guitar, piano, or organ), a bass instrument (electric bass guitar or double bass), and a drummer or percussionist. In rock ensembles, usually called rock bands, there are usually guitars and keyboards (piano, electric piano, Hammond organ, synthesizer, etc.) and a rhythm section made up of a bass guitar and drum kit.[1]